Former NBA Forward Gerald Paddio Dies in Car Crash at 60

Paddio, a UNLV star, played for five teams over three NBA seasons before retiring.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:24pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Gerald Paddio, a former NBA forward who played for five different teams over three seasons, died in a single-vehicle accident near Rayne, Louisiana. He was 60 years old.

Why it matters

Paddio was a well-known basketball player, having starred at UNLV before being drafted by the Boston Celtics and playing in the NBA and overseas. His sudden passing at a relatively young age is tragic and will be felt by the basketball community.

The details

According to reports, Paddio was identified as the deceased individual at the scene of the single-car crash on a two-lane road near Rayne, Louisiana. Paddio played 129 games over three NBA seasons for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Seattle SuperSonics, Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, and Washington Bullets, averaging 5.5 points in 12.6 minutes per game before retiring.

  • Paddio died on April 4, 2026.
  • Paddio played in the NBA from 1990-91 to 1993-94.

The players

Gerald Paddio

A former NBA forward who played for five teams over three seasons and was a star at UNLV, where he helped the team reach the Final Four in 1987.

Jerry Tarkanian

The head coach of the UNLV basketball team when Paddio played there, leading the Runnin' Rebels to the Final Four in 1987.

K.P. Gibson

The Acadia Parish Sheriff who confirmed Paddio's death at the scene of the single-vehicle accident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The sudden passing of Gerald Paddio, a former NBA player and UNLV standout, is a tragic loss for the basketball community. His career accomplishments and impact on the sport will be remembered.